Trying to sort out a faulty wiper system usually means dealing with several small, critical components. Selecting the precise wiper motor crank arm that matches your assembly shouldn’t hold up your repair time. I’ll walk you through exactly what to look for, ensuring you only buy the correct replacement the first time around.
Top Replacement Wiper Motor Crank Arm Options I Recommend
I focus on utility, compatibility, and real-world longevity when assessing these parts. When your safety depends on clear visibility, you need components that deliver consistent, reliable sweep motion without fail. These are the units and tools I currently endorse based on my professional testing.
1. GM Genuine Parts 12494832 Windshield Wiper Motor Crank Arm
I always prioritize OE parts when fitment tolerances are tight, and this GM Genuine crank arm is the benchmark for factory standards. I looked closely at the casting marks and material density, and it aligns perfectly with the unit I pulled out of the test vehicle, confirming true original equipment quality. It is designed to operate the wiper transmission exactly as the vehicle manufacturer intended, maintaining optimal sweep angles and speed under load.
Quick Specs
– Type: GM Original Equipment (OE)
– Function: Operates wiper transmission linkage
– Material: Factory specification alloy
– Fitment: Direct, exact fit replacement
– Testing: Tested to rigorous GM OE standards
The Honest Truth
This is non-negotiable for anyone needing exact factory compliance and hassle-free installation, especially in newer vehicles where tolerances are tighter. However, the premium price point means you are paying solely for the GM stamp of assurance, which may exceed the budget for simple repairs on older cars.
2. ACDelco 20785184 Windshield Wiper Motor Crank Arm, 2.63 in
During my bench testing of this ACDelco unit, I focused specifically on the sweep radius and pivot smoothness. The 2.63-inch arm length performed precisely as expected, ensuring the blades cleared the full intended viewing area on the truck I used for the test. I noticed the mounting bore was exceptionally clean, allowing for a tight, wobble-free interface with the motor shaft, crucial for longevity.
Quick Specs
– Length: 2.63 inches
– Compatibility: Formerly ACDelco GM Original Equipment (OE)
– Quality: Engineered and tested to rigorous GM standards
– Feature: Designed for specific Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, or Cadillac fitment
– Design: Regularly updated to integrate new materials/technologies
The Honest Truth
For reliable performance that meets GM’s standards without the full premium markup of “Genuine Parts,” this is a solid choice for a replacement wiper motor crank arm. I did find the connection socket required a bit more force to seat firmly compared to the original, but once locked, it held perfectly through several intense weather simulation cycles.
3. SSNNUU Windshield Wiper Arm Removal Tool Kit, Professional Bearing Puller
Removing seized wiper arms is the primary roadblock in any wiper motor replacement job; I’ve snapped cheap plastic pullers too many times attempting leverage. This SSNNUU kit directly addresses that frustration by providing heavy-duty, carbon steel components specifically designed for tight splines and corrosion. Its T-shaped handle allows for precise force application, minimizing the risk of damaging the delicate wiper transmission linkage underneath.
Quick Specs
– Material: High hardness carbon steel
– Design: Heavy-duty thread and linkage bearings
– Application: Easily remove wiper arms and small bearings
– Jaw Opening: Max opening 30mm (1.18 inch)
– Utility: Prevents damage during high-pressure removal
The Honest Truth
If you plan on doing this job more than once, this specialized puller is absolutely necessary to prevent damage to the vehicle body or the motor shaft. Keep in mind that for extremely corroded arms, you still need to apply penetrating oil beforehand, as this tool is a puller, not a miracle worker, but it makes the job ten times easier.
4. OEG Parts New Front Wiper Motor W/Crank Arm Dodge Caravan
I tested this OEG assembly against a re-manufactured unit to see if the budget pricing meant compromised performance. This unit is built as a complete replacement kit, including the crank arm pre-installed, which significantly cuts down on bench assembly time compared to swapping arms onto old motors. It’s marketed as brand new components, meaning you avoid the potential failure points inherent in re-manufactured cores.
Quick Specs
– Assembly Type: Complete Wiper Motor w/Crank Arm
– Condition: New Components
– Compatibility: Replaces multiple part numbers (4673013AA, WPM3001)
– Testing: Tested for reliability and durability
– Location: Front
The Honest Truth
This is the ideal option if the entire motor assembly is burnt out and you need a complete, budget-friendly wiper motor crank arm solution right now. My only caution is verifying the specific part number (4673013AA, etc.) since fitment for non-OE brands can be slightly less forgiving than the factory standard.
What I Prioritize in Wiper Motor Crank Arm
When I evaluate a replacement part like the wiper motor crank arm, my focus immediately shifts to specifications, compatibility, and reliability under load. The crank arm is a high-stress component that converts rotational movement into oscillatory motion for the linkage; if the dimensions are off by even a millimeter or the material is substandard, you get poor wipe quality or, worse, binding. I look for materials that resist corrosion and shaft bore sizes that ensure a precise, zero-tolerance fit onto the motor output shaft, preventing premature wear.
From my testing experience, reliability outweighs the initial cost every time. I’ve installed cheaper aftermarket arms only to have the spline fail within six months due to poor metallurgy. Avoid generic parts unless the specifications explicitly state compatibility with OE linkage systems and the vehicle’s specific load requirements. Performance factors like consistent wipe torque and minimal linkage slop come directly from high-quality manufacturing tolerances, which is where OE and certified replacement parts truly shine.
Application Types & Best Options
If you are dealing with low-mileage daily drivers that require factory assurance for warranty purposes or safety inspections, the GM Genuine Parts crank arm is the only choice I recommend. The cost is justified by the peace of mind that you are reinstalling the exact part the vehicle was designed with. For the average DIY mechanic or older vehicle restoration, the ACDelco version offers the best balance; it has certified standards but usually comes at a more palatable price point than the purely genuine OE component.
When the issue is more severe—requiring a full replacement of a burnt-out motor and crank assembly—the OEG kit is a fast and efficient solution. This is perfect for those who want a one-and-done repair without fiddling with the crank arm mounting procedure. Lastly, for any type of professional or repeated maintenance, investing in the SSNNUU removal tool is mandatory. You simply cannot efficiently replace the wiper motor crank arm without the ability to safely remove the old, often seized, wiper arm first.
Final Verdict: Choosing Your Crank Arm
When deciding on a replacement wiper motor crank arm, the priority must always be precise fitment and material integrity to handle continuous load exposure. My testing confirms that while true OE parts offer unbeatable accuracy, certified aftermarket equivalents like ACDelco provide near-identical performance for less money. If you are facing a complete motor failure, opting for a new assembly that includes a pre-mounted crank arm, like the OEG model, saves significant installation time.
- Best for Budget (Full Assembly): The OEG Parts Motor w/Crank Arm is the most economical path if the entire motor requires replacement, offering a brand new unit versus a remanufactured core.
- Best for Mid-Range Reliability: The ACDelco 20785184 strikes the optimal balance between GM-validated quality and price, making it my go-to recommendation for most everyday repairs.
- Best for Premium/Compliance: If absolute factory specification is required, the GM Genuine Parts 12494832 ensures 100% factory match and durability, suitable for dealership-level repairs.
- Essential Tooling: I highly recommend the SSNNUU Removal Tool Kit for anyone performing this replacement, as the removal process is often the most frustrating step.
Common Questions About Wiper Motor Crank Arm
What Is the Function of the Wiper Motor Crank Arm?
The primary function of the Wiper Motor Crank Arm is to convert the rotary motion of the wiper motor’s output shaft into the oscillating motion required by the wiper linkage assembly. Essentially, it acts as a lever that drives the entire transmission system, which in turn moves the wiper blades across the windshield.
How Can I Determine if My Wiper Linkage Needs Replacement?
You should suspect linkage or crank arm failure if your wipers stop moving entirely, move slowly or unevenly, or if only one wiper blade is working. Often, a faulty crank arm spline will result in the arm slipping on the motor shaft, causing inconsistent sweep or clicking sounds when the motor runs.
Is It Necessary to Use a Puller Tool to Remove the Wiper Arm?
Yes, in my professional experience, using a specialized puller tool is nearly always necessary, especially on older vehicles where the wiper arm has seized onto the transmission pivot spline due to corrosion. Attempting to pry it off without the correct tool can easily break the delicate plastic cowl or damage the pivot threads.
What are the Key Differences Between ACDelco and GM Genuine Parts?
GM Genuine Parts are the exact components installed when the vehicle was built, guaranteeing original factory fit and materials. ACDelco often serves as the certified service replacement part; while engineered and tested to meet GM standards, they may feature slight material or sourcing variations from the absolute original component, usually resulting in a slightly lower cost.
Can I Replace Just the Crank Arm or Do I Need the Whole Motor?
If the motor itself runs smoothly and quietly, you only need to replace the crank arm. However, if the motor shaft is worn, or if the motor exhibits buzzing, grinding, or excessive heat, you should replace the entire assembly (motor and crank arm) to ensure long-term reliability.
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